• SARB opens fully funded scholarships for fine arts students under age 35
• Creative economy projected to grow 40% by 2030 and reach 10% of global GDP
• Scholarships aim to develop local talent and strengthen the cultural sector

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has opened applications for its 2026 fine arts scholarship program. This fully funded initiative targets South African students under the age of 35 who have achieved a minimum academic average of 65 percent. Applicants must submit their materials, including an artistic portfolio and academic transcripts, by September 30, 2025.

According to a 2021 Deloitte study, the global creative economy is expected to grow by 40 percent by 2030. The IFC Infrastructure estimates it will account for 10 percent of global GDP. In this context, support for fine arts students is viewed as an investment in training professionals who can help grow the cultural sector, promote local identity, and create long-term employment.

Through these scholarships, SARB aims to support a new generation of professional artists. By helping young talents, the program seeks to build a stronger cultural sector, expand the local artistic landscape, and increase public access to a diverse and innovative creative offering.

The funding aligns with South Africa's broader effort to structure and support the cultural economy. It complements the work of the National Arts Council (NAC), which has promoted artistic excellence and increased access to the arts since 1997. However, continued progress requires stronger coordination among institutions to maximize the reach of programs and promote local talent in international markets.